History was made in the Coal City on Saturday, August 29, 2026, as East African distance runners delivered a masterclass at the successful second edition of the Enugu City International Marathon.
​Kenyan long-distance runner Edwin Kipyego took top honors in the elite male 42-kilometer race, while Ethiopia’s Zenebe Aberu claimed victory in the women’s category, capping off a thrilling day of world-class athletics in South-Eastern Nigeria. Both grand champions walked away with the ultimate grand prize of $15,000 each.
​The high-stakes 42KM race was flagged off at precisely 6:30 AM outside Shoprite on Abakaliki Road by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, who was accompanied by key state officials.
Thousands of spectators lined the course to cheer on over 3,000 participants as they navigated through scenic landmarks, including Independence Layout, Okpara Avenue, and Nike Lake Road. The thrilling race culminated at the iconic Michael Okpara Square.
​Kipyego executed a brilliant tactical performance to take the men’s crown in 2:20:38, making his decisive break from a four-man lead pack at the 37km mark. He led a dominant East African podium, finishing ahead of Ethiopian runners Habtamu Girma (2:23:39) and Shiferaw Daltiemayu (2:23:41).
​”This was a tough but beautiful course,” Kipyego said shortly after crossing the finish line. “The hills tested us, but the people of Enugu carried us with their cheers. I will definitely return next year.”
​While Kenya and Ethiopia took the major honors in the full marathon, Nigerian athletes gave the home crowd plenty to celebrate in the 10-kilometer fun run. Gang James Boyi clinched victory in the men’s 10KM race with a time of 29:59, while 20-year-old Patience Dalyop from Plateau State secured the women’s title.
​Presenting the medals on behalf of the state, Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, representing Governor Peter Mbah—reaffirmed the administration’s long-term vision for sports tourism.
​”The Enugu State Government remains deeply committed to raising the standard of this marathon with every edition,” stated Deputy Governor Ossai. “We are positioning Enugu as a premier global hub for sports, youth empowerment, and economic growth.”
​Yetunde Olopade, Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, the technical organizers of the race in partnership with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) hailed the event as a landmark triumph.
​”Enugu has set a magnificent standard today,” Olopade remarked. “This marathon is far more than 42 kilometers of running, it is a showcase of community resilience, healthy living, and West Africa’s growing footprint on the global sports calendar.”
​The successful multi-day event which included a five-day Marathon Expo at Michael Okpara Square leading up to race day, concluded with assurances from organizers that planning for an even grander 3rd edition in 2027 is already underway.
